Miss A Columnist

Amanda Belo is a communications professional living in Chicago by way of North Carolina (GO HEELS!). Her heart will always belong to the East Coast. In addition to being passionate about the arts, culture, travel, food, and social good, Amanda has always loved to write and tell compelling stories. Amanda finds something new about Chicago every day and she cannot wait to explore more about the city and Chicagoans as a writer for Miss A. She earned her bachelor's degree in dance, with a minor in communication studies from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and her master's degree in public relations and advertising from DePaul University.

Recap: Green Tie Ball 2014 In Chicago To Support Gateway Green’s Expressway Program

Chicago came out in mass to the Green Tie Ball XXII on September 13 at the University of Illinois at Chicago‘s Parking Lot 6. Many played dress up and came decked out in 20’s attire to match the Great Gatsby themed event. Even with a hint of winter in the air (heat lamps were aplenty), socialites, young professionals, local celebrities, and charitable givers took “eat, drink, and be merry” to a whole new level—all in the spirit of raising funds for Gateway Green‘s Expressway Partnership Program.

The Expressway program is an urban greening initiative to create and maintain beautiful and sustainable landscapes along Chicago’s expressways. More than 100 gardens have been created to revamp embankments alongside 150 acres of roadside.

Aside from music and the dance floor, guests dined on food from 55 local dining establishments and enjoyed open bars set-up all around. Stan’s Donuts, Garrett’s Popcorn, and Home Run Inn was also a welcomed presence for guests. And for the high rollers, a tent filled with casino games run by Rivers Casino gaming staff and dealers was on hand for charitable giving.

Windy City Live‘s Ryan Chiaverini and Val Warner emceed the event for the second year in a row.

To learn more about Gateway Green and the Expressway Partnership Program, visit www.gatewaygreen.org.